<p>There seems to be a stigma about the student body at UW from what I've read online, claiming that students aren't very social and that they aren't very friendly. I live in Illinois, so I of course have no clue, but I was just curious about the sense of family and collectiveness at the school. Is it social? By no means am I a 24-7 partier, but I like to enjoy my weekends. I've also read that it is a big commuter school. Would living in the dorms (preferably west campus) as a freshman be enjoyable and social? I'm just looking for some opinions from current students and alumni. Thanks! Go dawgs.</p>
<p>From my experience, this seems to be the case; people are generally less outgoing and are more introverted here. While it is harder to socialize, it isn’t impossible. You just have to put more effort into it.</p>
<p>Hey there! I’m currently a freshman at UW and I really like it here! I actually chose it over Berkeley and UCLA among some other schools. I think students here are really friendly and I’ve met a lot of people through clubs, certain programs (such as Early Fall Start) and my residence hall. </p>
<p>As for dorming, I think it’s really your call. You can definitely meet people whether you’re in West or North. One thing I’ve noticed is that most OOS kids and internationals stay on West, and everyone else on North, but each section (and each building, really) has their own unique feel to it, so I would visit first before making a decision. Keep in mind that housing is also random, so you’ll have to switch with someone if you really want a certain dorm. </p>
<p>Commuter school-wise, I’d say it only feels that way on the weekends–if you’re OOS and staying in the dorms, you should probably come up with some fun plans beforehand, haha. A lot of kids here are still from the general Seattle area and thus go home on weekends, so the campus tends to empty out a bit then. But on the weekdays I think it’s an exciting place to be since there’s usually something going on. </p>
<p>The one thing about UW, or any other large state school, really, is that it’s what you make of it. No one will be here to hold your hand so it’s up to you to get help for classes, find activities you’re interested in, etc. But the opportunities here are unparalleled in the region and although I know a lot of kids use it as a safety, it’s still a pretty darn good school. I have a guaranteed transfer to an Ivy League school next fall and I’m almost considering staying. </p>
<p>Let me know if you have any questions! And good luck with your application 
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<p>About the housing being random, could you elaborate? I know that the dorms on West Campus are more expensive than the ones on East Campus, so that seems a little unfair. Of course, I’m sure I could find something to do on the weekends - it’s Seattle. If I can afford it, it will be a huge culture shock (I’m from a farm town). Which isn’t a bad thing, but it is a little intimidating! My number one priority is the environment in which I am living, and I have always loved that region. I can’t wait to get out there, even if not for college. Sadly, I will not be able to visit the campus (and regretfully I never did whenever I visited Seattle) because I’m in Illinois and that kind of trip is completely out of budget for us right now. Thanks for your insight and good luck at UW or Ivy League if you choose to take that opportunity!</p>
<p>Of course, what I meant by so-called random housing is that even though you get to rank the dorms and room style you’d like to live in, there’s no guarantee that you’ll actually get it. I think people usually end up with one of their top three choices, but sometimes the configurations aren’t ideal (eg: a LOT of forced triples this year because of an overenrolled class). The good thing is that the housing swap forum is open during the summer and it’s generally pretty easy to find someone to trade with if you don’t like the room assignment you’ve been given. </p>
<p>As for visiting campus, you should check out Google Street View! I think they have most of campus covered so if you click around you can get an idea of what the vibe is like and the general feel of campus. </p>
<p>And Puget Sound is definitely a great place to be. It does rain a lot here, so be prepared for your share of dreary days, but it sounds like you would like the progressive, eco-friendly vibe here (there are separate trash cans for landfill, recycling, and composting, haha). </p>
<p>Best of luck!</p>